ABSTRACT
This chapter examines variations in function between the probation systems covered by the study. By way of introduction, it considers the range of functions covered by each system. The core of the chapter examines how different systems approach the core task of providing probation supervision. (The term is used here in a very inclusive sense, to embrace not only counselling but surveillance, and activities with a reparative function.) Finally, the chapter discusses the question of role conflict-the tensions between care and control-which can emerge in some probation systems.
